Watch and Learn: Lift off into Firefly
Learn how to fly in Tittibhasana with this video practice—exclusive only to Outside+ members.
Fireflies are beautiful insects that light up the night sky. The magical creatures illuminate summer fields like stars fallen from the sky. Perhaps their inner glow comes from doing a lot of yoga!
The gorgeous arm balance Tittibhasana—or Firefly Pose—is challenging. It requires both patience and strength. The pose can be practiced different ways, either with your pelvis low and the feet high, or with your legs parallel to the floor as shown in the video below. If you are still building up the arm strength needed for this pose, use props to help you build heat, strength, and stamina.
Whether your feet are high or parallel to the floor, press into your big toe mounds when your legs are lifted. Also be sure to press down firmly through the whole of each hand for balance. Use your fingertips to pull your sternum away from your navel and broaden your collarbones so your chest is not collapsed.
After spending 5–10 breaths in Firefly either release to the floor or use an exhalation to transition into Bakasana (Crane Pose).